NOTE: Exchange programs are competitive and students must complete certain steps before beginning an application. Students should work closely with a study abroad adviser before applying.

** Indicates rolling admission application process. Applicants will be immediately notified of acceptance into this program and be able to complete post-decision materials prior to the term's application deadline.

Program Overview

The Ecole Speciale d’Architecture or ESA is a great fit for Architecture, Interior Design, and Planning students. Students can take their coursework in a combination of English and French while perfecting their language skills and studying abroad for a semester and paying UC tuition. Students are able to use Paris as a backdrop for their projects and as inspiration at ESA. Students quickly become accustomed to the French lifestyle.

This is one of UC’s International Exchange Programs. These programs are great because the cost is the same as the University of Cincinnati. In fact, tuition and fees are paid the same way they are when a student is on campus. UC International can help students with many things, however many exchange programs are more independent experiences, and students are responsible for securing their own housing, visa, and airfare. There will also be additional application materials that students will need to submit to the partner university through UC International Programs. This is one of the most affordable ways to study abroad for a semester, but students should be sure an exchange program is the right fit before submitting an application.

Location

Who Can Participate?

DAAP students with a 3.0 GPA at the following levels are eligible to participate in this program:

Juniors
Seniors

Students must apply and be selected by a faculty committee, before starting an application online through UC International Programs. SAID and Planning students should submit the following to rebecca.williamson@uc.edu:

- cover letter describing reasons for wishing to participate, current level of French, and any other language abilities
- a similar cover letter in French if possible OR, if not, a detailed plan for language learning
- a scan of a transcript (no need to obtain a sealed official transcript)

- a selected portfolio (no more than six pages (six sides, not six sheets)) or link to online portfolio
- a letter from a professor that addresses preparedness to study abroad (sent separately by the professor)

Academic Program and Course Information

Students can take a variety of Architecture and Interior Design related coursework.

One of the most important preparations before going abroad is academic planning. Students receiving transfer credit from outside institutions (exchange or external) will need prior approval to bring that credit back to UC and be registered for the appropriate study abroad course. Please refer to the UC International webpage for more information.

Program Costs

Students should also keep in mind and research costs for the following:
International emergency and evacuation insurance
Visa application/processing fees
In-country transportation
Cultural excursions/entrance fees
Personal spending/souvenirs

Passports and Visas

A valid passport is essential to your international travel and study abroad. If you are planning to travel abroad, its best to apply for a passport now as processing times may vary. Please see the State Department's passport page for more information.

UC International is happy to guide UC faculty, staff and students to possible resources about visas for study abroad. Although, applying for the necessary visa for travel is the responsibility of the individual UC traveler. Entry requirements change frequently and we advise you to pay close attention to consular updates. It is your responsibility to knowing and addressing the requirements for your host study abroad destination.

Applying for a visa can be a complicated process. Some UC travelers choose to third party to assist with this process, for example Travisa or A Briggs (mention UC for a possible discount).

All UC students participating in a University of Cincinnati sanctioned or funded international travel program are required to purchase and maintain insurance while abroad. UC International partners with CISI to provide insurance for UC students.